David H. Case Study

David Hedin, a local physics professor, has had a long-standing interest in solar energy. After engaging in a talk by a fellow physics professor from the University of Illinois, who shared his own experiences with going solar, David was inspired to take action to begin his own solar journey. In addition to the benefit of saving money, he “wanted to be asenvironmentally friendly as possible.”

According to the EPA, the electric sector accounts for 27% of America’s carbon emissions. Fossil-fuel fired power plants create carbon emissions, as well as contribute to local air pollution. Annually, a typical residentialsolar panel system will eliminate three to four tons of carbon emissions – the equivalent of planting over 100 trees annually.

That same professor recommended that David work with IRE, so the choice was a no-brainer. Despite a delay in acquiring the permit, the installation went well. David said he worked with Norm and his team and when an issue popped up with one of the panels, “IRE fixed it very quickly.”

Since completion of his solar installation, David’s dedication to conservation efforts continues. “I’m getting about 50% of my electricity from my own panels. I get the other 50% from a wind farm company.” He was hopeful that his solar panels would spur fellow neighbors’ and colleagues’ environmentalism into action. He continues to educate others onsolar energy and his own experiences in a lecture he gives as part of his physics course at Northern Illinois University. “Hopefully some students will go solar in the future” he concludes.

Inspiring solar education AND long-term financial benefits? That’s Solar Made Simple.